Maku
ISO3:
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I have not visited ❌
Time Zone: Africa/Libreville
"Le cœur de l'Ivindo | The heart of Ivindo"
0.5676° N, 12.8649° E
About:
Makokou, the capital of the Ogooué-Ivindo province in Gabon, was founded in the late 19th century. It developed as a regional center for trade and administration under French colonial rule. Post-independence, Makokou experienced growth due to its strategic location and became a hub for timber industry. Today, it's known for its Ivindo National Park and Kongou waterfalls. Infrastructure has improved with a hospital, airport, and a research center, contributing to its modernization and development.
When to visit:
Makokou, a charming town located in Gabon, offers a unique experience for travelers seeking a blend of nature and culture. To fully appreciate the beauty of Makokou, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which typically falls between June and September. During this period, visitors can enjoy ideal weather conditions with less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing in the surrounding rainforests. Additionally, the dry season also coincides with the breeding season for many bird species, providing birdwatching enthusiasts with a wonderful opportunity to observe a variety of avian species in their natural habitat.
When to avoid:
Makokou is a city located in Gabon, a country known for its tropical climate and lush rainforests. The worst time to travel to Makokou on a holiday would typically be during the rainy season, which occurs from October to May. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and an increased risk of tropical diseases such as malaria. Travelers should be aware that roads may become impassable and outdoor activities may be limited due to the inclement weather conditions. It is advisable to check weather forecasts and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Rainy Season (Nov-Apr)
Makokou, located in Gabon, experiences the warmest part of the year from January to May, with the highest temperatures typically seen in April. During this period, average high temperatures hover around 30-32°C (86-90°F), while the average lows are around 21-23°C (70-73°F).
Rainfall is quite significant during this period, with April being the wettest month, receiving an average rainfall of about 250-300mm. The rain usually comes in heavy but short-lived downpours, often in the afternoons or evenings, leaving the mornings generally dry.
Sunlight varies, but you can expect about 6-7 hours of daylight per day. The sky is mostly cloudy, with cloud cover ranging from 75-85%. This cloudiness helps to moderate the heat, but it also means that sunny, clear skies are rare.
Humidity is high in Makokou, often exceeding 80%, which can make the heat feel more oppressive. However, the frequent rain helps to cool things down a bit.
For a visitor, a typical day during the warmest part of the year in Makokou would start with a warm, humid morning, with temperatures quickly rising. The afternoon would likely bring a heavy rain shower, providing a brief respite from the heat. After the rain, the skies remain mostly cloudy and the humidity high, making the evenings warm and sticky. Despite the heat and humidity, this period offers a unique experience of the tropical climate and lush greenery of Gabon.
"Hot Season (February-April)"
Makokou, located in Gabon, experiences the warmest part of the year from January to May, with the highest temperatures typically seen in April. During this period, average high temperatures hover around 30-32°C (86-90°F), while the average lows are around 21-23°C (70-73°F).
Rainfall is quite significant during this period, with April being the wettest month, receiving an average rainfall of about 250-300mm. The rain usually comes in heavy but short-lived downpours, often in the afternoons or evenings, leaving the mornings generally dry.
Sunlight varies, but you can expect about 6-7 hours of daylight per day. The sky is mostly cloudy, with cloud cover ranging from 75-85%. This cloudiness helps to moderate the heat, but it also means that sunny, clear skies are rare.
Humidity is high in Makokou, often exceeding 80%, which can make the heat feel more oppressive. However, the frequent rain helps to cool things down a bit.
For a visitor, a typical day during the warmest part of the year in Makokou would start with a warm, humid morning, with temperatures quickly rising. The afternoon would likely bring a heavy rain shower, providing a brief respite from the heat. After the rain, the skies remain mostly cloudy and the humidity high, making the evenings warm and sticky. Despite the heat and humidity, this period offers a unique experience of the tropical climate and lush greenery of Gabon.
Language:
french
Makokou, the capital of the Ogooué-Ivindo province in Gabon, predominantly features French as its official language, reflecting the country's colonial history. However, Fang, a Bantu language, is also widely spoken among the local population. Other Gabonese languages such as Myene, Bateke, Bapounou/Eschira and Bandjabi may be spoken as well.